Ideas Generated by a Close
to Home Leadership Team

1. Helpful things to say:
   • I am worried about you.
   • Are you OK?
   • Is there anything I can do for you?

2. Let them know that domestic violence happens to a lot of people
   • You are not alone.

3. Define your role
   • I'll be there for you
   • If you need me, I'll be there
   • My door is always open.
   • You can confide in me.
   • I can keep in touch with you and check in with you regularly.
   • I can find out about resources — where you can go and who you can talk to. I'd be happy to go with you.

4. Helpful suggestions for how to proceed
   • How well you know the person determines how you would talk to them.
   • Create opportunities to talk and gain their confidence.
   • By gaining someone's confidence you are reaffirming that they are not alone.
   • Allow them to set the pace. Take it slowly.
   • You don't have to say an awful lot in the beginning — listen.
   • Gain their trust.
   • Be sincere.
   • What works for one person doesn't work for everyone.
   • The connection is the key.